Playing against opposition from a 22nd different country in European competition β and a 12th in just over two years β the Hammers were unquestionably the more polished of the two teams on show, but it needed a Kudus-inspired comeback to secure an opening-night victory. The opening 35 minutes were dominated by the Hammers, who enjoyed over 80 per cent possession, but could not turn that dominance into goals, initially at least.
That is not to say the hosts did not go close, though, with NINE different outfield players having at least one attempt on the TSC goal. Having weathered the early storm, which did not quite match the pre-match hailstorm which drenched London Stadium an hour before kick-off, TSC grew in belief. The only player who did not have a goal attempt in the first half, Aaron Cresswell, was replaced by Emerson at half-time.
Within two minutes of the restart, West Ham were behind. Having seen his side fall behind, Moyes sent on Michail Antonio just past the hour-mark, and it took just five minutes for his team to draw level. Benrahma tricked his way into space on the left and crossed with his right. Kudus would have to wait for his goal, but for less than four minutes. The Hammers won a left-wing corner, Ward-Prowse delivered and registered yet another assist as the Ghanaian lost his marker and powered a header into the same bottom left-hand corner.
With London Stadium now jubilant, the hosts went looking for a decisive third. Breadcrumb WHU. Last chance for UK Standard Delivery. Shop now in time for Christmas! Shop now. Live Scores.
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